Implantable Activity and Temperature Animal Bio-loggerOverview of changes in animal activity over time. Minimally invasive, simple to implant and explant. On-board calculation of acceleration statistics from 3-axis accelerometer data.Ideal for use in studies on small captive and free-ranging animals Key featuresStatistical and raw 3-axis accelerometer dataMinimally invasiveSmall size (3.3g)Stress-free long-term studiesGuaranteed accuracy and performance Statistical and raw 3-axis accelerometer dataEach activity measurement is comprised of a burst activity measurement over one minute with a user programmable sampling frequency of 0.03Hz-10Hz. Statistical parameters are calculated on-board, based on the dynamic body acceleration of the animal. Raw accelerometer measurements can be stored in the logger’s memory for further processing.Minimally InvasiveThe DST micro-ACT simultaneously measures long term activity and core body temperature in the animal. The logger is simple to implant and explant and is made from ceramic housing to guarantee biocompatibility.ApplicationThis bio-logger is ideal for a variety of studies including those looking at behaviour, pre-clinical vaccine efficacy and stress response. It is suitable for use in laboratory, domestic and wildlife animal research, including studies on animal welfare and is suitable for use in all biosafety levels.Overview of Changes in Animal Activity Over TimeMeasuring acceleration derived activity gives researchers the chance to get an overall view of changes in the study animals’ activity over time. The DST activity loggers measure acceleration in three dimensions, in relation to earth‘s gravity field. Each activity measurement is composed of a burst activity measurement over one minute with a chosen sampling frequency of 0.03Hz-10Hz.Stress-Free Long-Term StudiesThe logger has a battery life of over 13 months, when sampling every 15 minutes at a 1Hz sampling frequency. The logger is especially useful when a comprehensive data set throughout the research period is needed with no disturbance to the animal. Since no data is transmitted there are no housing or environmental restrictions that apply to the data collection.Different Measurement IntervalsOptionally, the loggers can be programmed with multiple different intervals within a study. This can, for example, be useful when different intervals are preferred during the day or night and can optimize battery life and save memory at the same time.Guaranteed accuracy and performanceEvery logger is individually calibrated for temperature and comes with a calibration certificate. In addition, a static calibration is performed on the acceleration values eliminating the need for the user to normalize the data. We guarantee the loggers’ accuracy and performance for one year after purchase.Using the loggerSimple in use, from setup to data retrievalThe logger and the accompanying accessories are designed for ease of use throughout the research process, from setting up the logger, implanting it, to retrieving and analysing the data. The logger is supported by the Mercury software and a Communication Box which need to be purchased with the first order.Programming the logger: To start the logger for measurements it is placed into a Communication Box and connected to the software. The Communication Box serves as an interface between the logger and a PC computer. In the application software, the user sets the start time, start date and sampling interval before starting the recorder.Statistical parameters and raw accelerometer data: Each activity measurement is recorded over a one minute period with a 3-axis accelerometer, using a user programmable sampling frequency of 0.03Hz-10Hz. The on-board algorithm of the logger provides six statistical parameters for each one minute measurement including: minimum, maximum and average EA* values, variance of EA, skewness and kurtosis. Raw accelerometer data can be stored for additional calculations. *EA stands for “external acceleration”, an individually calibrated and normalized variable comparable to the vectoral sum of the dynamic body acceleration (VeDBA).Multiple measurement intervals: Different measurement intervals can be set for the same study. This is especially useful when more or less frequent measurements are needed at a certain time period, optimizing memory space and battery life.Memory and battery life calculations: The software automatically calculates the memory capacity based on certain interval settings, making it easier for the user to decide how to program the logger and design the study. Estimated battery consumption during that time period is also calculated.Uploading the Data: After recovering the logger, the logger is inserted into the communication box and the recorded data is uploaded to the software. The results are displayed both in graphic and tabular form and the data can be exported to other programs.Reusable: After retrieving the data the logger can easily be sterilized and reused as long as the battery lasts. Current battery life can be viewed in the software and the user can get an estimate of how long the logger memory and battery will last in a planned research.Hermetically sealed: All Star-Oddi loggers are implantable grade, hermetically sealed and waterproof with high pressure tolerance. Therefore, the battery is not replaceable.SpecificationsSensorsActivity (3-axes acceleration) and temperatureSize (Diameter x Length)8.3 mm x 25.4 mmHousing MaterialAlumina (Ceramic)Weight3.3gData Resolution12 bit (Temperature), 13 bit (Acceleration)Acceleration Resolution2 mgTemperature Range5°C to +45°C (41°F to 113°F)**Temperature Resolution 0.032°C (0.058°F)Temperature Accuracy+/-0.2°C (0.36°F)Memory TypeFRAMMemory Capacity52,429 measurements per sensor (if all parameters are recorded simultaneously)Memory Capacity Bytes1,048,575 bytes / temperature 2 bytes, acceleration statistics 18 bytesMeasurement IntervalUser specified in minutes or hoursMinimum Measurement Interval2 minutesMultiple Intervals OptionUp to 7 different intervalsMeasurement Options (Primary/Secondary)T OR T+ACTData Retention25 yearsClockReal time clock. Accuracy +/-1 min/monthCommunicationsCommunication Box, wireless transmission when logger is placed in the box. Connection to PC: USB cable.Attachment Hole0.9 mm (in diameter)Battery Life19-154 days***Accelerometer Sampling Frequency0.03Hz-10HzDuration of ACT Measurement1 minute*Adjusted resolution**Outside ranges available upon request*** For 1Hz sampling frequency over 1 minute. Sampling interval 2-20min. Activity and temperature recorded simultaneously.Specifications may change without notice.